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Evacuation Order lifted on Rock Creek Fire

Staff Writer

Monday, August 8, 2016

MAMMOTH LAKES, CA

Evacuation orders for the Swall Meadows area were lifted yesterday as fire crews made progress on the Rock Creek Fire, which was at 86 percent contained this morning, Aug. 8 and at about 122 acres in size, with 338 personnel assigned to the fire, according to the forest service.

Last night, evening winds continued to challenge the southern portion of the fire towards the Swall Meadows area, however, crews were successful in constructing direct line, resulting in a large percentage of containment, according to a news releases from the forest this morning. Today, crews will continue to construct direct line, patrol and mop up along the fire’s perimeter.

Swall Meadows was evacuated on Aug. 5. The evacuation was lifted yesterday, Aug. 7, and residents were allowed back at 6 p.m.

Lower Rock Creek Road is closed between Swall Meadows and U.S. Highway 395. The fire is under investigation but appears to be human caused.

Low relative humidity and afternoon winds continue to be a concern for both the Rock Creek and Clark fires.

Clark Fire: This fire is located east of U.S. Highway 395 near Bald Mountain and was started by lightning on Aug. 4. The fire was at 2,819 acres and 60 percent contained this morning, Aug. 8.

Today, crews will actively monitor containment lines, continue to build and strengthen hand line as opportunity presents itself along the northeast flank, according to a news release. The crews will also monitor interior islands of unburned fuel. The decrease in acreage was a result of more accurate mapping.

Clark Canyon, a popular climbing area, remains evacuated. There are several Forest Service roads that lead to the Bald Mountain area and visitors should avoid these roads and the fire area for their safety and firefighter safety.